Neumann KMS104 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Assorted Colors)
The capsule of the Neumann KMS 104 has a cardioid directional characteristic which provides the best possible suppression of sounds originating from behind the microphone. The high acoustic resolution and smooth frequency response of this microphone ensures that the musician has optimal control of the stage performance at all times. Due to the low self-noise and crosstalk behavior which is free of coloration, this microphone is ideal for use with in-ear monitoring systems.
- Neumann sound on stage
- Excellent transparency for vocals/speech
- Cardioid polar pattern with excellent feedback rejection
- Free of off-axis coloration
- Transformerless output
- Effective pop shielding without any side effects
- Set includes stand clamp
Acoustic features
The studio condenser capsule used in the KMS104 provides the basis for transmitting all the nuances of the human voice. In comparison with other handheld microphones, which operate mostly with dynamic capsules, the KMS series has a particularly high acoustic transparency, a wide frequency range and a fine resolution of transients.
Carefully adjusted acoustic filters and transformerless impedance converters that can handle very high sound pressure levels, prevent the microphone from being overloaded even by strong plosive sounds.
In spite of excellent pop protection, sibilants and “S” sounds are transmitted with their natural accentuation, as is possible only with condenser microphones. Furthermore, the above-mentioned acoustic filters are designed so that the distinctive directional characteristics of the capsule is preserved even in the bass range. The filters thus ensure a very high level of feedback protection for the KMS 104 when they are used with a stage sound system.
Electrical features
Since vocalist microphones are typically addressed at close range, for the bass frequency response of the microphones, electronic compensation is used for the proximity effect in the respective capsules.
In addition, each microphone has an invariable, built-in high-pass filter with a cutoff frequency of 120 Hz (–3 dB, measured in a free sound field). The dynamic range of the KMS 104 is 132 dB, and the maximum sound pressure level is 150 dB.
The low self-noise level of only 18 dB-A permits the microphone to be used at high gain levels without the risk of additional noise. Even at large distances, the microphones thus operate with a high signal-to-noise ratio, facilitating the freedom of movement and creativity that are important to the artist.
Due to the transformerless output circuit, the microphone signals can be transmitted even through long cables without loss of sound.
Mechanical features
Microphones designed for use on stage require a particularly robust construction. The KMS 104 has a thick-walled metal housing, which also provides effective protection against handling noise. The microphone headgrille is made of hardened steel. If required, they can easily be unscrewed to permit cleaning of the interior acoustic filters.
